Joint media release with the Minister for Health, the Hon Greg Hunt MP



Australia will share its successful approach to the COVID-19 pandemic and the pathway ahead as the host of the virtual Global Innovation Summit 2020.

Held over the next two days, the theme of this year’s summit – Crossing the chasm: Health, Innovation and the Future Economy. Participants will explore the impact of COVID-19 from a health, social and economic perspective, and the pivotal role innovation will have as we recover.

Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, said the global sharing of ideas, successes, challenges and plans was more important than ever as the world responds to the pandemic.

“Globally, Australia is in an enviable position – both financially and in our health response to COVID-19,” Minister Hunt said.

“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen monumental change to the way Australians can take care of their health. This includes the introduction of telehealth, which has revolutionised the way Australian patients can receive care.”

“This summit gives us the opportunity to outline how we have approached the most challenging of times, and allows us to work with other global leaders to develop the innovative health solutions we need in the months and years ahead.”

The summit will provide an opportunity to showcase Australia’s innovation breakthroughs and technology to leaders across the health, science, industry, investment and technology sectors.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Karen Andrews, said the virtual conference will bring together some of the brightest minds from around the world to discuss how economies can emerge from COVID-19 pandemic with increased resilience and competitiveness.

“Manufacturing will be critical to our nation’s economic future, and the Morrison Government is strategically investing in areas of manufacturing where we know we have an edge, so that Australian manufacturers can scale up and create new jobs,” Minister Andrews said.

“Through the Modern Manufacturing Strategy, we are boosting the role of science and technology in industry, which will allow us to open up new markets and take more Australian products to the world.

“To prepare for the post-COVID economy, we are also investing in additional support for Australian businesses to use digital tools to enhance their processes, as part of our goal to become a leading digital economy by 2030.”

The Global Innovation Summit is co-hosted by the Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils – a network of organisations and 35 countries with shared principles, to enhance regional, national and global prosperity.

The two-day event will include international leaders’ perspectives, interactive panel discussions and presentations highlighting key innovation breakthroughs assisting the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The virtual event is free and you can register online.



Media contact: 

Minister Andrews' office: (02) 6277 7070